Caulk

Caulk seals gaps and cracks to block water, drafts, dust, and noise, boosting comfort and saving energy while giving joints a clean, finished look. Use it around windows and doors, baseboards and trim, tubs and showers, sinks and backsplashes, siding and roofing penetrations, and masonry control joints to prevent leaks, mold, and pest entry.

Choose the right caulk for the job. Silicone caulk offers long-lasting waterproofing and strong adhesion on glass, tile, and metal, but is typically not paintable. Acrylic latex caulk is easy to apply, low odor, water-cleanup, and paintable for interior trim. Siliconized acrylic blends paintability with improved water resistance. Polyurethane sealant excels outdoors on concrete, brick, and wood, providing superior flexibility and durability. Butyl and hybrid/MS polymer sealants handle wide joint movement, UV exposure, and challenging substrates.

Selection tips:
- Interior dry areas: acrylic latex or siliconized acrylic.
- Wet areas (bathroom, kitchen): 100% silicone, mold-resistant formulas.
- Exterior siding, windows, roofing: polyurethane or hybrid sealant with UV resistance.
- If you plan to paint: choose "paintable" on the label.

Application matters. Clean and dry the surfaces, remove old caulk, and use a backer rod for deep or wide joints. Cut the nozzle at a 45° angle to the joint size, load a smooth-rod or dripless caulking gun, and apply a steady bead. Tool the bead within a few minutes with a caulk tool or wet finger for solid contact. Respect curing times before getting the joint wet or painting. Clean up latex with water; use mineral spirits for many solvent-based products. Check temperature ranges and ventilation, and select low-VOC options for indoor projects.

Stock up on caulking guns, scrapers, removers, finishing tools, and backer rod to make caulking faster, neater, and longer-lasting. Find high-quality caulk, sealants, and accessories for pro-grade results on every project, all seasons.